MANILA – The Department of Migrant Workers (DMW), led by Secretary Hans Leo Cacdac, is seeking an exemption from the Commission on Elections (Comelec) to continue providing financial aid to overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) during the election period. Cacdac emphasized the urgency of responding to distress calls from OFWs abroad, which is a core responsibility of the DMW.
During a discussion at the Saturday News Forum in Quezon City, Cacdac highlighted that election campaign periods typically include restrictions on financial assistance, as well as on appointments, promotions, and transfers. He stressed the necessity of exemptions due to the emergency nature of their services, particularly when immediate deployment of staff overseas is required.
According to Comelec Resolution 11060, exemptions can be granted for social welfare projects and services during the public spending ban, which runs from March 28 to May 11. The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) has already received exemptions for 28 programs, with the condition that no candidates or politicians are involved in the distribution and that Comelec is informed of the guidelines.
In addition to seeking exemptions, the DMW is collaborating with Comelec to encourage migrant workers to participate in the elections on May 12.
On another note, Cacdac confirmed that the government is assisting the family of Jenny Alvarado, a migrant worker who tragically died from coal smoke inhalation in Kuwait earlier this month. The Overseas Workers Welfare Administration, headed by Arnell Ignacio, is coordinating with Alvarado’s family. While foul play has not been ruled out, Cacdac stated that they await the results of an autopsy conducted by the National Bureau of Investigation. Furthermore, Philippine lawyers in Kuwait are investigating the liability of the service provider responsible for the mistaken repatriation of a different body on January 14, instead of Alvarado’s. Alvarado and two co-workers reportedly died from coal smoke inhalation from their employer’s heating system on January 2.